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5
Top 5 Questions for your Lung Cancer Doctor
1
Will you test my tumor for molecular markers?
A newer type of lung cancer treatment, called targeted therapy, may be the best treatment
option for people whose tumors have certain characteristics, called molecular markers.
It is important you know all of your treatment options and having your tumor tested using
comprehensive genomic testing is an important step. Receiving comprehensive testing versus
standard will give your doctor a fuller understanding of your particular type of lung cancer
so he or she can suggest the best treatment options for you.
2
Is a clinical trial right for me?
Clinical trials are carefully monitored research studies and may give you access to potentially
life-saving treatment. Talk with your doctor about whether a clinical trial is the right treatment
decision for you as soon as you begin exploring treatment options.
3
Can I meet with a palliative care specialist?
Most people don’t know that many hospitals and treatment centers have a team of specialists
trained in helping a person cope with side effects. Palliative care is sometimes thought of as
something people receive at the end-of-life, but it is actually recommended that lung cancer
patients receive this extra layer of support as soon as they start treatment. Palliative care,
sometimes called supportive care, can offer you side effect management through counseling,
therapies and medications that can make going through lung cancer treatment just a little easier.
4
What are the goals of the treatments you’ve recommended?
You and your care team should work together to make the best treatment decisions for you.
Part of making these decisions, is knowing the goal of the treatment and if it aligns with your
vision for your care.
5
What should I do if I have questions or concerns?
Each member of your care team may have their own preferred way of communicating. Some
prefer phone calls, others may use email and some may recommend you contact a point person,
like a nurse navigator. Knowing how your care team prefers to communicate, can make it easier
to get your questions answered and concerns addressed. For more information about these topics and other lung cancer resources,
visit Lung.org/facinglungcancer.
Supported by an independent educational grant from
1-800-LUNG-USA | Lung.org/facinglungcancer